Containment device, method and system

ABSTRACT

Embodiments disclosed herein relate to systems, methods and devices for containing a substance within a region. In some embodiments, one or hollow structures are positioned around the region and the structures are at least partly filled (e.g., through fill openings) with a weighting material. Some embodiments relate to a curved device comprising steps, such that a first cross-section of the device comprises a round shape and a second cross-section comprises a plurality of substantially linear segments. Some embodiments relate to a tank connection device comprising a sleeve extending through a curved device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.12/614,996, filed on Nov. 9, 2009, which claims priority to U.S.Provisional Patent Application No. 61/117,093, filed on Nov. 22, 2008.Each of these applications is hereby incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Many facilities require a containment device for various tanks andvessels to prevent fluids and other mediums from accidentally spreadingdue to leaks, ruptures, manmade mistakes and other reasons. Two suchcontainment devices commonly used are earthen dikes and berms.Containment devices such as these may suffer from erosion due to, forexample, wind, rain, animals and/or foot traffic. Additionally, animalsburrowing in the devices may also reduce the devices' structuralstability. The containment devices may be covered over with rock,asphalt millings and other materials to help maintain their structuralstability, but frequently, containment structures must be continuallyrebuilt. Often times these facilities are remotely located (forexample—oil field tanks), and it is difficult and/or expensive tomaintain the devices.

Other containment devices, such as concrete walls and galvanized metal,are sometimes used. However, concrete walls are expensive, can crack andare hard to dispose of when abandoning the site. Galvanized metal wallsfrequently cannot withstand moderate to strong winds, and the metalcorrodes when exposed to corrosive materials such as salt water andcorrosive gases, both of which tend to be present in oil fieldoperations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In some embodiments, a containment system for containing a substance isprovided, the system comprising a plurality of fillable devices, eachdevice comprising: a first at least partly open end; a second at leastpartly open end; a cavity between the first and second open ends; and atleast one opening on a surface between the first and second ends,wherein the fillable devices are arranged such that the first end of atleast one of the devices is adjacent to the second end of another of thedevices. The fillable devices may be arranged in a closed shape, suchthat the first end of each of the plurality of fillable devices isadjacent to the second end of an adjacent fillable device. The pluralityof fillable devices may be positioned such that the at least oneopenings are on the top of the devices. Each device may comprise aplurality of openings. The openings may be, for example, between about 2and about 6 inches in diameter. The openings may be substantially evenlyspaced across a length of each device. The openings may be separated bya distance between about 2 and 8 feet. The devices may comprise asubstantially circular cross section. A diameter of the devices may be,for example, between about 1 and about 4 feet or, for example, about 2feet. The containment system may further include one or more coversconfigured to cover one or more of the at least one openings. Each ofthe covers may be configured to cover one of the openings and/or aplurality of openings. The device may further comprise a hingeconnecting one of the covers to one or more of the devices, such thatthe cover can rotate to cover one of the openings. The fillable devicesmay comprise high density polyethylene. At least one of the fillabledevices may comprise a substantially cylindrical shape. The first end ofat least one of the devices may be facing a direction that issubstantially non-parallel to a direction faced by the second end of theat least one device. The first end of at least one of the devices may befacing a direction that is about 90 degrees offset from a directionfaced by the second end of the at least one device. At least one of thedevices may comprise steps. A surface connecting the first and secondends of at least one of the devices may include a curved surface andplurality of substantially flat surfaces. The plurality of substantiallyflat surfaces may be offset from each other in a vertical direction. Atleast one of the devices may include a sleeve extending through the atleast one device in a first direction, the first direction beingnon-parallel to a side of the device connecting the first and secondends. The at least one device may include a drip catching structurebelow the sleeve. The drip catching structure may include at least oneof a well or basin. The substance may include a liquid and/or oil. Thecontainment system may form a continuous, uninterrupted enclosure.

In some embodiments, a method of making a containment structure isprovided, the method comprising: identifying a containment region;positioning a plurality of fillable devices around at least part of theperimeter of the region; and optionally at least partly filling theplurality of fillable devices with a weighting substance, wherein eachof the plurality of fillable devices comprises: a first at least partlyopen end; a second at least partly open end; a cavity between the firstand second open ends; and at least one opening on a surface between thefirst and second ends. In some embodiments, the optional step isincluded and is not optional. The method may further include levelingthe identified region and/or evacuating earth materials from at least aportion of a perimeter of the containment region. The earth materialsmay comprise one or more of dirt, sand rock and grass. The evacuatingmay include evacuating earth materials along the perimeter to a depthbetween about 2 and about 6 inches and/or forming a rounded shape in theground. The containment region may include a fluid storage unit. Themethod may further include positioning the devices to be adjacent toeach other. The method may further include positioning a sealingmaterial around the perimeter. The plurality of fillable devices may bepositioned over the sealing material. The sealing material may bepositioned adjacent to the fillable devices. The sealing material mayinclude at least one of dirt, clay, and bentonite. The weightingsubstance may include a solid material and/or at least one of sand,soil, rocks, dirt and gravel. The method may further include coveringsaid openings with a cover. The positioning may include arranging thedevices such that the first end of each of the plurality of fillabledevices is adjacent to the second end of an adjacent fillable devices.The plurality of fillable devices may be positioned such that the atleast one openings are on the top of the devices. Each device mayinclude a plurality of openings. The devices may include a substantiallycircular cross section. A diameter of the devices may be between about 1and about 4 feet. Each device may include one or more covers configuredto cover one or more of the at least one openings. One or more of thefillable devices may include high density polyethylene. At least one ofthe fillable devices may comprise a substantially cylindrical shape. Thefirst end of at least one of the devices may be facing a direction thatis substantially non-parallel to a direction faced by the second end ofthe at least one device. The first end of at least one of the devicesmay be facing a direction that is about 90 degrees offset from adirection faced by the second end of the at least one device. At leastone of the devices may comprise steps. A surface connecting the firstand second ends of at least one of the devices may comprise a curvedsurface and plurality of substantially flat surfaces. At least one ofthe devices may include a sleeve extending through the at least onedevice in a first direction, the first direction being non-parallel to aside of the device connecting the first and second ends. The at leastone device may comprise a drip catching structure below the sleeve. Thedrip catching structure may comprise at least one of a well or basin.

In some embodiments, a fillable device is provided, the fillable devicecomprising: a first at least partly open end; a second at least partlyopen end; a cavity between the first and second open ends; at least oneopening on a surface between the first and second ends; and a sideconnecting the first and second ends that is curved such that the firstend is facing a direction that is substantially non-parallel to adirection faced by the second end. The at least one opening may includea plurality of openings. The openings may be between about 2 and about 6inches in diameter. The first and second at least partly open ends maycomprise a length along a dimension of at least about 12 inches. Theopenings may be substantially evenly spaced across a length of thedevice. The device may include a substantially circular cross section. Adiameter of the device may be between about 1 and about 4 feet. Adiameter of the device may be about 2 feet. The device may furtherinclude one or more covers configured to cover one or more of the atleast one openings. The device may include high density polyethylene.The first end may be facing a direction that is about 90 degrees offsetfrom a direction faced by the second end.

In some embodiments, a fillable device is provided, the devicecomprising: a first at least partly open end; a second at least partlyopen end; a cavity between the first and second open ends; at least oneopening on a surface between the first and second ends; and a sideconnecting the first and second ends, the side comprising a corner suchthat the first end is facing a direction that is substantiallynon-parallel to a direction faced by the second end. The at least oneopening may include a plurality of openings. The openings may be betweenabout 2 and about 6 inches in diameter and/or may be substantiallyevenly spaced across a length of the device. The device may include asubstantially circular cross section. A diameter of the device may bebetween about 1 and about 4 feet and/or about 2 feet. The device mayfurther include one or more covers configured to cover one or more ofthe at least one openings. The device may include high densitypolyethylene. The corner may be at a substantially 90 degree angle.

In some embodiments, a device is provided, the device comprising a firstat least partly open end; a second at least partly open end; a cavitybetween the first and second open ends; a curved surface between thefirst and second ends; and a plurality of steps. The length of thedevice may be the distance between the first and second ends and thewidth the distance across the device in a direction perpendicular to thelength. The steps may extend across the width of the device. The devicemay include a first round cross section and a second step cross section,the step cross section comprising a plurality of substantially linearsegments. The device may further include a support structure configuredto at least partly support a user using the steps. The support structuremay include a hand rail. The surface may include at least one opening.The at least one opening may include a plurality of openings. Theopenings may be between about 2 and about 6 inches in diameter and/ormay be substantially evenly spaced across a length of the device. Thedevice may further include one or more covers configured to cover one ormore of the at least one openings. The device may include asubstantially circular cross section. A diameter of the device may bebetween about 1 and about 4 feet and/or about 2 feet. The device maycomprise high density polyethylene.

In some embodiments, a step component is provided, the componentcomprising a curved supporting structure; and a plurality of stepsrising above the curved supporting structure. A radius of the curvedsupporting structure may be between about 8 inches and about 30 inches.The component may comprise a first round cross section and a second stepcross section, the step cross section comprising a plurality ofsubstantially linear segments. The component may further include atleast one opening on a surface of the component. The at least oneopening may include a plurality of openings and/or may be between about2 and about 6 inches in diameter. The openings may be substantiallyevenly spaced across a length of the device. The component may furtherinclude one or more covers configured to cover one or more of the atleast one openings. The component may include high density polyethylene.

In some embodiments, a method of modifying a round structure isprovided, the method comprising positioning a step component describedherein over the curved structure. The method may further includeattaching the step component to the round structure. The round structuremay include a shape substantially similar to a cylinder. The roundstructure may include a culvert.

In some embodiments, a method of modifying a round structure isprovided, the method comprising removing a portion of the roundstructure thereby forming a void; and positioning a step componentdescribed herein over the void.

In some embodiments, a device is provided, the device comprising a firstat least partly open end; a second at least partly open end; a cavitybetween the first and second open ends; and a sleeve extending throughthe at least one device in a first direction, the first direction beingnon-parallel to a side of the device connecting the first and secondends. The device may further include a drip catching structure below thesleeve, a drip catching cover configured to cover the drip catchingstructure, and/or at least one opening on a surface between the firstand second ends. The drip catching structure may comprise at least oneof a well or basin. The at least one opening may include a plurality ofopenings. The openings may be between about 2 and about 6 inches indiameter and/or substantially evenly spaced across a length of thedevice. The device may further include one or more covers configured tocover one or more of the at least one openings. The device may include asubstantially circular cross section. The diameter of the device may bebetween about 1 and about 4 feet and/or may be about 2 feet. The devicemay include high density polyethylene.

In some embodiments, a method of transporting a fluid is provided, themethod comprising: attaching a fluid transportation unit to a fluidstorage unit within a containment region; and inserting the fluidtransportation unit into the sleeve of a device described herein. Themethod may further include opening a valve on or near the fluid storageunit and/or opening a valve within a device described herein. The fluidtransportation unit may comprise a pipe.

In some embodiments, a tank connection component is provided, thecomponent comprising: a supporting structure curved along a firstdirection; and a sleeve extending through the at least one component inthe first direction. The component may further include a drip catchingstructure below the sleeve. The drip catching structure may comprise atleast one of a well or basin. The component may further include a dripcatching cover configured to cover the drip catching structure. A radiusof the curved supporting structure may be between about 8 inches andabout 30 inches. The component may further include at least one openingon a surface of the component. The at least one opening may include aplurality of openings. The openings may be between about 2 and about 6inches in diameter and/or may be substantially evenly spaced across alength of the device. The component may further include one or morecovers configured to cover one or more of the at least one openings. Thecomponent may include high density polyethylene.

In some embodiments, a method of modifying a round structure isprovided, the method comprising: removing a portion of the roundstructure thereby forming a void; and positioning a tank connectioncomponent described herein over the curved structure. The method mayfurther include attaching the tank connection component to the roundstructure. The round structure may include a shape substantially similarto a cylinder. The round structure may include a culvert.

In some embodiments, a method of transporting a fluid is provided, themethod comprising: attaching a fluid transportation unit to a fluidstorage unit within a containment region; and inserting the fluidtransportation unit into the sleeve of a component described herein. Themethod may further include opening a valve on or near the fluid storageunit and/or opening a valve within a device described herein. The fluidtransportation unit may include a pipe.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment of a fillable device with a plurality offilling openings.

FIGS. 2A-2C show various coverings configured to cover openings of afillable device.

FIG. 3A shows two fillable devices being positioned to form a corner andFIGS. 3B and 3C show illustrative curved fillable devices.

FIGS. 4A-4C show illustrative fillable devices that include steps.

FIGS. 5A-5B show an illustrative embodiment that includes a step insertcomponent positioned in a void of a fillable device, and FIG. 5C shows astep overlay component positioned over a fillable device.

FIG. 6 shows a step component that may be positioned over a fillabledevice.

FIGS. 7A-B show illustrative tank connection fillable devices thatinclude a sleeve for a fluid transportation unit.

FIGS. 8A-8C show an illustrative process for making a tank connectionfillable device using a tank connection component.

FIG. 9 shows a process for forming a containment system.

FIG. 10 shows an example of a containment region surrounded by afillable device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

Embodiments provided herein relate to systems, methods and devices forcontaining or minimizing the spread of a medium or for containing asubstance within a region. In some embodiments the systems may include afillable device, such as a pipe, conduit (e.g., at least partiallyclosed conduit) or duct. For example, in some embodiments, one or morestructures or devices can be positioned around a region, and optionally,the structures/devices can be at least partly filled (e.g., through fillopenings), such as with a weighting material. The device(s) may bepositioned at least partly or completely around a location of a possiblespill (e.g., around an oil tank). Some embodiments relate to a devicethat includes steps, such that a first cross-section of the device hasor includes a round shape and a second cross-section includes or has aplurality of substantially linear segments. Some embodiments relate to atank connection device that includes, for example, a sleeve extendingthrough a curved device.

Some of the structures or devices may be fillable, for example. Afillable device may include, for example, a device with a cavity thatcan be at least partially filled with a substance, such as a weightingsubstance. In some instances, the device can include one or moreopenings or holes to allow access to the cavity. Thus, a substance mayenter the openings or holes to fill the cavity. More details with regardto the openings or holes are described below.

As shown in FIG. 1, the fillable device 100 may be or may include, forexample, a pipe, conduit or duct. The pipe may include, for example, aculvert. The fillable device may include, for example, a first end 105 aand a second end 105 b. A dimension of the first end 105 a and/or thesecond end 105 b (e.g., a diameter) may be at least about, about or lessthan about 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48 or 64 inches. The ends 105 mayinclude, for example, large openings, allowing access to a cavity of thedevice 100. The first end 105 a may be opposite from the second end 105b. In some instances, multiple fillable devices may be attached at theirends 105, which may thus form an extended cavity. In some embodiments,the device 100 can be positioned on its side 110, the side being, inthis instance, a side between the two ends 105. The side 110 mayinclude, for example, a long side or a side not comprising largeopenings. The length of the device (e.g., the length of side 110 fromend 105 a to end 105 b) may be, for example, more than about 1 foot, 2feet, 3 feet, 5 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, 40 feet, 50feet, 75 feet, 100 feet or more, for example. The length of the device(e.g., the length of side 110 from 105 a to 105 b) may be, for example,less than about 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 5 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20feet, 30 feet, 40 feet or 50 feet. The length of the device (e.g., thelength of side 110 from 105 a to 105 b) may be, for example, about 1foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 5 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, 40feet or 50 feet. It should be noted that the device 100 illustrated inFIG. 1 can be the only segment or one of multiple segment of acontainment system or containment device. The containment device orsystem can be of any suitable length according the region that is to bepartially or completely contained. In some aspects, a single continuousdevice can be used. In other aspects multiple devices (or segments) canbe joined to at least partially surround the region.

The device 100 may be configured such that ends of one device 100 canconnect to ends of another device 100. In some embodiments, an internalcoupling and/or one or more bands (e.g., wrap-around bands) may be usedto connect devices 100. A sealant may be used to help prevent leakagebetween the devices 100.

The device 100 may include one or more openings 115. The openings can beof any desirable shape and/or size. For example the shape and/or crosssection of the openings may be circular, square, rectangular,triangular, elliptical or any other shape. These openings 115 may be,for example, smaller than the dimensions of the first and/or second ends105. The openings 115 may be substantially regularly spaced across alength of the device 100. The distance between adjacent openings 115 maybe, for example, more than about 1 inch, 6 inches, 1 foot, 2 feet, 3feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet, 9 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet,20 feet, 50 feet or more, for example. The distance between adjacentopenings 115 may be, for example, less than about 1 inch, 2 inches, 6inches, 1 foot, 2 feet, 3 feet, 4 feet, 5 feet, 6 feet, 7 feet, 8 feet,9 feet, 10 feet, 15 feet, 20 feet, 30 feet, or 50 feet. The openings 115may be of any appropriate size. In some instances, a dimension of theopenings 115 is at least about ½ inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches, one foot, 2 feet, threefeet or more, for example. In some instances, a dimension of theopenings 115 is less than about ½ inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches, 4inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches, 1 foot, 2 feet or 3feet, for example.

In some instances, such as that shown in FIG. 1, the openings 115 arelocated at a similar position with respect to a cross-sectional shape ofthe device 100. Thus, the openings 115 may then be aligned. For example,the openings 115 may be positioned in straight line relative to eachother, and in some aspects, for example, they can be positioned in aline that runs parallel to an axis of the device 100. Such alignment maymake it easier to fill the device with a substance through the holes. Inother instances, the openings 115 are located at different positionswith respect to the cross-sectional shape. This may allow the substanceto fill different portions (e.g., a front and back portion) of thedevice, which may cause a more even weight distribution.

A fillable device may include, for example, a device comprising a cavityconfigured to be at least partially filled with a substance, such as aweighting substance. In some instances, the device can include, forexample, one or more openings or holes to allow access to the cavity.Thus, a substance may enter the openings or holes to fill the cavity.More details with regards to the openings or holes are described below.

The device may include, for example, any appropriate material. In someinstances, the device can include, for example, a plastic. The materialmay be non-corrodible and/or corrosive, which may be advantageousparticularly in environments including salt water and/or hydrogensulfide gas. The material may be resistant to degradation, for example,UV degradation, such as high density polyethylene (HDPE). In someinstances, the material may repel a liquid, such as water. In someinstances, the device comprises a material to absorb a liquid, such asoil. The material may be rigid, semi-rigid or flexible, for example. Insome instances, a pre-formed component is modified to form a fillabledevice 100. For example, a pipe or culvert may be modified to, forexample, include the openings 115 to become the fillable device 100.

As shown in FIGS. 2A-2C, a covering 205 may be provided to cover anopening 215 of the device 100. The covering 205 a may be configured tobe inserted into the opening 215, as shown in FIG. 2A. The covering 205a may include, for example, a bottom portion configured to be insertedinto the opening 115 and a top portion configured to rest on a surfaceof the device 100. Depending on the embodiment, the bottom portion maybe configured such that it will loosely or snuggly fit in the opening115. The top portion may include, for example, a larger cross sectionthan a bottom portion. The covering 205 a and the opening 115 may beconfigured such that the covering 205 a can snap into the opening. Insome instances, the cross-section of the covering remains substantiallythe same. In these cases, the covering 205 a may be long or may beconfigured to be a tight fit within the opening 115, such that it isunlikely that the covering 205 a can be completely inserted or fallthrough the opening 115, and a top un-inserted portion will likelyremain following insertion of the covering 205 a.

A covering 205 b may be attached to a device 100, as shown in FIG. 2B.Additional components, such as pegs, screws, nails or an adhesive may beused to attach the covering 205 b to the device.

A covering 205 c may be configured to overlie the opening 115, as shownin FIG. 2C. In some instances, the covering 205 c can include a shapesimilar to or that matches the contour and/or shape of the device 100.The covering 205 c may include, for example, a lap over cover or saddlecover. The covering 205 c for example, wrap around at least a portion ofthe device 100, which may, for example, anchor the covering 205 c to thedevice 100.

In some embodiments, the covering 205 may include one or more of awedge, a lid and a flap.

FIGS. 2A-2C show coverings 205 configured to cover a single opening 115.In some embodiments, a covering 205 can covers a plurality of openings115. For example, the covering 205 c from FIG. 2C may be extended to alonger length, such that it would cover a plurality of openings 115.Coverings 205 a or 205 b, shown in FIG. 2A or 2B, respectively, may beconnected to adjacent coverings. In these instances, it may not benecessary to individually position a covering 205 over each opening 115.

FIG. 1 shows an embodiment in which the fillable device 100 issubstantially straight (e.g., a straight tube). In other embodiments,the device may include, for example, one or more of a curve or corner,as shown in FIGS. 3A-3C. In some embodiments, a single device caninclude a corner (e.g., a square corner). In other embodiments, twodevices 100 a and 100 b are positioned to form a corner, as shown inFIG. 3A. In some of these instances, one or both of the device's firstand second ends 105 a and 105 b are not normal to the side 110 (notshown in FIG. 3, but see FIG. 1) of the device. For example, the ends105 a and 105 b may be at about a 45 degree angle with respect to theside 110. Depending on the configuration of the devices, both ends 105may be substantially non-normal to the length or only one end 105 may benon-normal. In FIG. 3A, a non-normal second end 105 b of a first device100 a is positioned adjacent to a non-normal first end 105 b of a seconddevice 100 b. The devices 100 a and 100 b may or may not be connected toeach other. In some embodiments, the devices 100 a and 100 b areconfigured to interlock. In some embodiments, one or more internalcouplings and/or bands (e.g., wrap-around bands) may be used to connectdevices 100 a and 100 b. A sealant may be used to help prevent leakagebetween the devices 100 a and 100 b. A separate component may also beused to attach the devices 100 a and 100 b together. While FIG. 3A showstwo devices being positioned to form a right angle, other types ofcorners (e.g., non-right angle corners, such as for example about45-degree to about 160-degree corners) may also be formed. In someembodiments, an additional device may be positioned between the secondend 105 b of the first device 100 a and the first end 105 a of thesecond device 100 b. The additional device may have a cross sectiondifferent from that of the first and second device 100 a and 100 b.

FIG. 3B shows a curved device 100 c. As shown, the curved device 100 cmay be configured to connect two devices (e.g., two straight devices)100 d and 100 e. In some aspects a single device can be used that hascurvature, rather than the depicted three devices that are connected,though multiple devices may provide advantages of ease of transportingeach device to the location and/or customizing the shape of thecontainment device. In some instances, a positional angle difference isdetermined between one or more devices or two or more portions of adevice 100. The positional angle difference is the angular differencebetween lines running tangential to a side 110 (not shown in FIG. 3, butsee FIG. 1) of the devices or device portions. Thus, in FIG. 3B, thepositional angle difference between devices 100 d and 100 e isapproximately 90 degrees. However, in other embodiments, the curveddevice 100 c can be configured to produce different positional angledifferences between devices connected to the curved device 100 c. FIG.3C shows an embodiment in which the curved device 100 c comprises a moregradual turn than that from FIG. 3B. The curved device 100 c may becharacterized by a radius, which can relate to how sharply a turnoccurs. For example, a radius of curved device 100 c of FIG. 3A islonger than a radius of curved device 100 c of FIG. 3B, indicating amore gradual turn.

In some instances, the devices can be manufactured with a particularcurve. In other embodiments, the devices 100 can be at least partlyflexible, such that they can be bent around a desired shape or bent tobe a desired shape.

In some embodiments, corner devices (e.g., 100 c or a single device thatincludes or incorporates both 100 a and 100 b) and/or cornering definingdevices (e.g., 100 a or 100 b) can include openings (for example similarto openings 115 of FIGS. 1-2), while in other embodiments they do not.

It may be necessary for people to enter and exit an area enclosed by acontainment device or system. Thus, in some embodiments, a containmentsystem can include, for example, one or more steps 405. In someembodiments, a fillable device 100 f can include steps 405, as shown inFIG. 4. The fillable device 100 f comprising the steps 405 may beconfigured, for example, to attach to other fillable devices 100. Forexample, the device may include, for example, one or more ends 105configured to interlock with or connect to ends 105 of other devices. Insome instances, the fillable device 100 f that includes the steps 405may include bracing, e.g., inside the device 100 f. The bracing may runin a direction along the length or along the side 110 of the device 100f. Thus, a substance that fills the device 100 f may flow into adjacentdevices and vice versa.

The number of steps may depend, for example, on the diameter of thedevice 100 f and/or the step depth. In some instances, the number ofsteps is at least about, approximately, or less than about 1, 2, 3, 4,5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, 20, 30, or 50 steps. The number of steps mayinclude, for example, an odd number. The step depth is defined as alength of a step 405 in direction perpendicular to the side 110 of thedevice, and it may be at least about, approximately, or less than about6 inches, 8 inches, 12 inches, 18 inches, 24 inches, 30 inches or 36inches. In one embodiment, the device diameter is about 2 feet, the stepdepth is about 12 inches and the number of steps is 3.

In some embodiments, the highest step 405 is of substantially the sameheight or is substantially aligned with the height of the device 100 for of an adjacent device 100, as shown in FIGS. 4A and 4C. In otherinstances, the highest step is higher or lower than the height of thedevice 100 f or of an adjacent device 100.

One or more steps 405 may include, for example, one or more openings115. The openings 115 may be, for example, through a bottom portion 405a of the steps 405, the bottom portion 405 a being that on which aperson would be expected to step on. In some instances, only the higheror highest steps 405 comprise one or more openings 115.

In some embodiments, the total depth across the steps 405 can beapproximately equal to the diameter of the device 100 f. In someembodiments, the total depth across the steps 405 is wider than thediameter of the device 100 f. Such may occur depending on determinedstep depth, step height and/or step number. For example, if steps 405are one foot deep and one foot high and the device 100 f has a 2-footdiameter, three steps may be used and thus the total step depth of 3feet exceeds the 2-foot diameter. In these instances, the device 100 fmay be constructed such that the steps 405 are flush with respect to oneside 110 a of the device, as shown in the top-down view of the fillabledevice 100 f comprising steps 405 in FIG. 4B. The steps 405 may extendbeyond a second side 110 b. The second side 110 b may be a side towardsthe center of a region being at least partly contained by the device 100f. This configuration may prevent vehicles, graders, transports, etc.from running over the steps. In other embodiments, the steps extendbeyond both sides 110 a and 110 b of the device.

In some embodiments, the steps 405 are closed, while in others, they areopen. For example, a back surface 405 b of the steps may be a solidmaterial (possibly with openings 115) or may be open. The bottom surface405 a of the steps may include, for example, a heavy-duty metal screen.The screen may thereby include openings 115 that would allow a substanceto enter a cavity of the device 110 f. The steps may include, forexample, traction grips, grates, or molded in traction grips.

A support structure 410 may also be provided. The support structure 410may include, for example, a hand rail. The support structure 410 may beanchored and/or installed into the ground, as shown in FIG. 4C, or itmay be a part of the device 110 f. For example, support structures 410may extend out of the top of the device 100 f. The support structure 410may allow for people using the steps to maintain their balance. Thesupport structure 410 may be anchored and/or attached to a fillabledevice and/or a step 405.

FIG. 5A shows an embodiment in which a portion of a fillable device 100is removed to form a space 505. The space may be formed, for example, bymaking a first cut in the device 100 crossways up to, for example, thehighest point of the device 100. A second cut may then be made parallelto the first cut. The distance between the first and second cuts maydefine or constrain the width of steps 405. A third cut may be made toconnect top ends of the first and second cuts and a fourth cut toconnect the bottom ends of the first and second cuts. These cuts mayseparate a section of the device 100 from the remaining portion of thedevice 100. The section may include, for example, for example, a crosssection with an area of about ¼, ⅓, or ½ times the cross-sectional areaof the device 100. In some embodiments, the first and second cuts goentirely through the device 100 and the third and fourth cuts are notmade.

A step insert component 510 can be positioned within the void, as shownin FIG. 5B. In some embodiments, a portion of the step insert component510 may overlap with a portion of the device 100. The step insertcomponent 510 may be positioned at least partly in the space 505, suchthat steps are inset into the device 100 (e.g., for about half of thedevice 100). The step insert component 510 may be attached to the device100, for example, by glue, screws, etc.

As shown in FIG. 5C, a step overlay component 515 can be positioned overa portion of a device adjacent to the step insert component 510 oradjacent to a space 505 formed as described above with respect to FIG.5A. In some embodiments, a single step component can include both thestep insert component 510 and step overlay component 515. In someembodiments, the step overlay component 515 extends beyond the device100 to, for example, accommodate extra step width.

In some embodiments, a step component (e.g., the step component 605shown in FIG. 6) may be placed over a fillable device 100 or anotherround structure (e.g., a structure with a shape similar to the device orthat fits over the device, for example, a cylinder, a culvert, astructure with a shape similar to a sphere, etc.). A portion of the stepcomponent may include, for example, a shape similar to that of thefillable device 100. For example, the step component 605 may include,for example, a curved cross section. A radius of curvature of the stepcomponent 605 may be slightly larger than a radius of curvature of thedevice 100, such that the step component 605 may at least partly wraparound the device 100. The radius of the step component 605 may be, forexample, more than about, about, or less than about 6 inches, 8 inches,10 inches, 12 inches, 14 inches, 16 inches, 18 inches, 20 inches, 22inches, 24 inches, 26 inches, 30 inches, or 36 inches. The stepcomponent 605 may be attached to the device, for example, with anadhesive, a sealer, screws, tabs, etc. In some embodiments, the shape ofthe step component 605 serves to at least partly secure the stepcomponent 605 to the device 100. For example, the step component maysnap onto the device 100. The step component 605 may include, forexample, a supporting section (e.g., a portion with a shape parallelinga shape of the fillable device 100) and may include, for example, steps405. The steps may be over, on and/or adjacent to the supportingsection. In one embodiment, the steps are positioned on the supportingsection. In one embodiment, no portion of the step component is belowthe steps. The steps may then, for example, include openings 115, suchthat a substance may fill the steps and/or an underlying device 100. Thesteps may be solid or hollow. In some instances, the steps compriseopenings 115. In the example shown in FIG. 6, the steps 405 are flushwith both sides of the device 100. In some embodiments, the steps extendbeyond one or both sides of the device 100. In some embodiments, thestep component 605 is centered on the device 100, such that the steps405, for example, are substantially parallel to the ground.

In some embodiments, the step component 605 and void are configured suchthat the step component 605 is slightly bigger in one or more dimensionsthan the void. Thus, the step component 605 may overlap the device 100.The amount of overlap may be any appropriate length, such as at leastabout, approximately or no more than about ½ inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3inches, 4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches, 12 inches, 18inches, or 24 inches. In some conditions (e.g., when the step component605 comprises a slightly flexible or flexible material), the overlap maybe long enough to ensure that the component 605 does not fall into thevoid. In some instances, the component 605 is configured such that oneor both of a front side (e.g., a side facing the outside of acontainment region) and a back side (e.g., a side facing the inside of acontainment region) extend to be at or near the ground. Similarly, thestep overlay component 515 may be configured to overlap the device 100.

Although steps are shown in FIGS. 5-6, it should be noted that in someembodiments, the devices can include other mechanisms that permit aperson, apparatus or device to cross the devices. For example, ratherthan steps, a ramp can be used which would allow one to cross, and mayallow for an object having wheels to go up and over the device.

The step insert component 510, step overlay component 515 and/or thestep component 605 may include, for example, a material similar to orthe same as a material of the device 100. For example, the stepcomponent may include, for example, HDPE. The step insert component 510,step overlay component 515 and/or the step component 605 may include,for example, one or more openings 115.

Many facilities have tanks or fluid storage units with valves locatednear the bottom where fluid is removed from the tanks or storage units.For example, in oil fields, a “connection” valve can be located aboutone foot up from the bottom of a stock tank on the front side of thetank. When fluid is to be removed from the fluid storage unit (e.g.,when a tank of oil is sold), a hose may be connected to this valve(usually 2″ or 3″) and fluid removed from the unit. However, when acontainment structure (e.g., a dike) surrounds the unit, operators(e.g., truck drivers) then frequently climb over the structure toconnect a hose to the valve. An alternative strategy is to position partof a pipe, conduit, tube or manifold through or over the containmentstructure and connect an end of the pipe, conduit, tube or manifold toone or more storage unit valves. The pipe, conduit, tube or manifold mayinclude, for example, a valve on an end outside of a contained region.In some instances, valves are on or near the storage units (e.g., areceiving end) and on or near an output end (e.g., an end to beconnected to a truck transport). By closing a valve on the output end,fluid (e.g., oil) remaining in the pipe, conduit, tube or manifold maybe contained with the pipe, conduit, tube or manifold (e.g., after ahose is disconnected from the output end) instead of draining outside ofthe containment region.

In some embodiments, a tank connection fillable device 100 g isprovided, as shown in FIGS. 7A and 7B. The tank connection fillabledevice 100 g may include, for example, a sleeve 705. The sleeve 705 mayextend through at least a portion of the tank connection fillable device100 g in, for example, a width-wise direction. The sleeve 705 mayinclude, for example, an input end and an output end. In some instances,an end of a fluid transportation unit 710 (e.g., a pipe or hose), whichmay, for example, be connected to a fluid storage structure, is insertedinto an end of the sleeve 705 or inserted through the sleeve 705.Different adapters may be used to, for example, allow different sizes offluid transportation units 710 to be used without having to havedifferent sizes of sleeves 705. In some embodiments, properly sizedrubbers, o-ring type materials or other gasket like materials may beused to provide a “seal” between the fluid transportation unit 710 andthe sleeve 705 and/or to prevent any containment fluids from leakingthrough the sleeve 705. Such sealing components may be, for example,slipped over the fluid transportation unit 710 where it enters thesleeve 705. In some instances, the sleeve 705 a flexible material, suchas rubber, an o-ring type material or other gasket-like material ispositioned between the fluid transportation unit 710 and the sleeve 705(e.g., by positioning the material over the fluid transportation unit710) prior to inserting the unit 710 into the sleeve 705. Thus, when afluid transportation unit 710 is inserted into or through the sleeve705, the position may be slightly adjusted due to these flexiblematerials. The flexible material may absorb effects of movements (e.g.,settling, bumping into, expansion, etc.), which may otherwise break orcrack a structure sealing the position of the sleeve 705 (e.g., acementing fixing structure). As such a break or crack may cause a leak,the flexible material may serve to reduce or prevent leaks.

In some embodiments, a pipe, connection, conduit or tube can be used inplace of the sleeve 705. In these instances, the sleeve 705 may beconfigured to connect (e.g., via an input end) to a fluid transportationunit 710. In some embodiments, an input end of the sleeve 705 connectsor attaches to an output end of the fluid transportation unit 710. Insome embodiments, the device 100 g comprises two holes, one at an insidesurface and one at an outside surface of the device 100 g, instead ofthe sleeve 705. The fluid transportation unit 710 may then enter onehole and exit another hold, thereby passing through or transversing thedevice 100 g. This embodiment may be used, for example, in conditions inwhich the tank connection fillable device 100 g is not completely filledwith a substance.

In some embodiments, the tank connection fillable device 100 g mayinclude, for example, a drip catching structure 715. The drip catchingstructure 715 may include, for example, a basin, well or insetconfigured to capture, absorb and/or hold liquid. The drip catchingstructure 715 may be provided within a center portion of the device 100g or may be protruding out (not shown) of the device 100 g. The sleeve705 may be located above the drip catching structure 715, such that, forexample, the drip catching structure 715 could contain liquids drippedor spilled from an end of the sleeve 705 so they are not spread into theinside or outside of a containment region. Fluid can be removed from thedrip catching structure 715 as determined necessary, regularly or asneeded.

Referencing FIG. 7A, in some instances, a drip catch cover 725 can beprovided to cover the drip catching structure 715. The drip catch cover725 may, for example, be hinged to (e.g., the top or side) of the dripcatching structure 715. The drip catch cover 725 may include, forexample, a material similar to that of the main component of thefillable device. The drip catch cover 725 may include, for example,HDPE. The hinges may be attached to a device or may be molded into thedevice, which may be more resistant to corrosive environments than otherhinges. The drip catch cover 725 may include, for example, a heavymaterial or may be weighted, which may prevent moderate and/or strongwinds from lifting the cover 725. A latch or lock may be provided tokeep the drip catch cover 725 closed. A latch or lock may be provided tokeep the drip catch cover 725 open. A lock may help prevent or reducevandalism and/or theft. The drip catch cover 725 may prevent or reducethe amount of dirt, ice, rain, debris or other natural substances fromaccumulating, for example, in the drip catching structure 715.

The tank connection fillable device 100 g may include, for example, avalve 720. The valve 720 may be configured to be attached to a liquidtransportation unit 710 or may be on the liquid transportation unit 710.The valve 720 may control the flow of a fluid from the liquidtransportation unit 710 through an output end of the liquidtransportation unit 710 or of the sleeve 715. The valve 720 may beconfigured such that removal of, for example, a hose from the output endof the sleeve 715 does not result in any or a substantial amount ofliquid dripping from the sleeve 715.

The tank connection fillable device 100 g may include, for example, amaterial, shape and/or dimensions similar to non-tank connectionfillable devices (e.g., device 100 shown in FIG. 1). The tank connectionfillable device 100 g may include, for example, ends to connect to orattach to other fillable devices (e.g., device 100 or any of devices 100a-f). The tank connection fillable device 100 g may include, forexample, bracing or support inside the device 100 g, which may, forexample, run in the direction of a side 110. This configuration of thebracing or support may allow, for example, a fillable substanceintroduced in the tank connection fillable device 100 g to spread toadjacent devices or vice versa. In some embodiments, the tank connectionfillable device 100 g may include openings (for example, similar to theopenings 115 of FIG. 1), which may be positioned along a top portion ofthe device 100 g.

FIGS. 8A-8C show examples, without being limited thereto, of one set ofsome of the components that can be used in making a tank connectionfillable device 100 g and an example of one process for making a tankconnection fillable device 100 g using a tank connection component 805.First, a segment is removed from a fillable device 100. The segment maybe removed by, for example, a first cut may be made width-ways through atop portion of the device. A second cut may be made width-ways,substantially parallel to the first cut and to a substantially similardepth. The first and second cuts may be substantially symmetric across amiddle length-wise axis, as shown in FIG. 8A or may asymmetricallyextend (or be entirely) within a half of the device 100 facing away froma containment region (e.g., within an exterior half), as shown in FIG.8B.

Third and forth cuts may connect the back and front ends of the firstand second cuts. Thus, a void 810 is formed. A tank connection component805 may then be inserted into the void 810.

The tank connection component 805 may include, for example, a sleeve 705and a drip catching structure 715, as described with reference to FIGS.7A-B. A fluid transportation unit 710 may then be inserted, for example,through the sleeve 705 and the fluid exiting the unit 710 through anoutput end may be controlled by valve 720, as described in furtherdetail above. FIG. 8C shows an embodiment that may result from a processwhere a segment is removed from a fillable device and a tank connectioncomponent is inserted into the void, as described herein. The tankconnection component may be configured to fit snuggly into the void suchthat there is no overlap, though alternative arrangements are providedin other embodiments. In some instances, when a fillable device isoriginally being manufactured, it may be configured to allow for fluidtransportation through (e.g., transversely through) the device. Thedevice may be manufactured directly as shown in FIG. 8C as to, forexample, include the sleeve 705 and/or the drip catching structure 715.

In some embodiments, the tank connection component 805 and void 810 areconfigured such that the tank connection component 805 is slightlybigger in one or more dimensions than the void 810. Thus, the tankconnection component 805 may overlap the device 100. The amount ofoverlap may be any appropriate length, such as at least about,approximately or no more than about ½ inch, 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches,4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches, 12 inches, 18 inches,24 inches or more as desired. In some conditions (e.g., when the tankconnection component 805 includes or is made from a slightly flexible orflexible material), the overlap may be long enough to ensure that thecomponent 805 does not fall into the void 810, for example. In someinstances, the component 805 may be configured such that one or both ofa front side (e.g., a side facing the outside of a containment region)and a back side (e.g., a side facing the inside of a containment region)extend to be at or near the ground. In conditions where the void 810 iscontained entirely or primarily within the front side of the device 100,the overlap may extend to the back side of the device. The tankconnection component 805 may be secured to the device, for example, by asealer, screws, or an adhesive. In some embodiments, the shape of thetank connection component 805 serves to secure the tank connectioncomponent 805 to the device 100. For example, the tank connectioncomponent 805 may snap onto the device 100.

A portion of the tank connection component 805 may include, for example,a shape similar to that of the fillable device 100. For example, thetank connection component 805 may include, for example, a curved crosssection. A radius of curvature of the tank connection component 805 maybe slightly larger than a radius of curvature of the device 100, suchthat the tank connection component 805 may at least partly wrap aroundthe device 100. The radius of the tank connection component 805 may be,for example, more than about, about, or less than about 6 inches, 8inches, 10 inches, 12 inches, 14 inches, 16 inches, 18 inches, 20inches, 22 inches, 24 inches, 26 inches, 30 inches, or 36 inches. Thetank connection component 805 may include, for example, openings 115.

In some instances, the tank connection component 805 may be positionedover a round structure (e.g., a structure with a shape similar to acylinder, a culvert, a structure with a shape similar to a sphere, etc.)other than the fillable device.

FIG. 9 shows an example of an illustrative process 900 of forming acontainment system. In some embodiments, steps of the process may bedeleted, added, supplemented, or rearranged.

At step 905, a containment region is identified. The region may be onethat includes, for example, a fluid storage unit, such as an oil tank,one housing an environmentally hazardous material, and/or any othermaterial that one desires to contain. In some embodiments,identification of the region can include calculating the size orperimeter of the region.

At step 910, the region is at least partially leveled. Leveling mayprevent, for example, fluids from flowing from a high area to a low areaand possibly overflowing a containment structure. In some instances(e.g., when the region is already approximately level), process 900 doesnot include step 910. The degree to which a region is leveled can dependupon the potential amount or volume of material that is to be contained.For example, in some instances the region can be less than completelylevel, thereby permitting some spilled material to be present in greateramount at one part of the containment region. However, not present insuch a great amount that it will spill out of the containment region orover the device.

At step 915, earth materials are evacuated from the perimeter of theregion. Earth materials may include, for example, dirt, sand, rock,grass, etc. The earth materials may be removed, for example, to a depthof at least about, about or less than about 1 inch, 2 inches, 3 inches,4 inches, 5 inches, 6 inches, 8 inches, 10 inches or 12 inches. In someinstances the materials are removed to a depth of approximately 2 inchesto approximately 6 inches. The materials may be removed in such a waythat a rounded shaped trough or indentation is formed, such that roundedfillable devices 100 may be positioned within indentations formed by theevacuations. The evacuation may allow fillable devices 100 to settleinto the ground, to help prevent leaking from underneath the devices 100and/or to prevent the fillable devices 100 from rolling. It should benoted that in some aspects, step 915 can be deleted from the process.

At step 920, a fillable device is positioned. In some instances, aplurality of fillable devices 100 can be positioned, for example, aroundthe perimeter. The devices 100 may be connected to adjacent devices 100as described above. In some embodiments, straight fillable devices(e.g., the device 100 shown in FIG. 1) are positioned. In someinstances, corner or curved devices (e.g., those shown in connectionwith FIGS. 3A-3C), step devices or components (e.g., those shown inconnection with FIGS. 4-6), and/or tank connection devices or components(e.g., those shown in connection with FIGS. 7-8) are positioned. Asdescribed in greater detail above, in some embodiments, devices 100 maybe positioned and then a void may be formed within one or more devicessuch that a component (e.g., a step component 605 or tank connectioncomponent 805) may be positioned within the void.

At step 925, a sealing material can be positioned. In some embodiments,the sealing material is positioned before the fillable devices 100 arepositioned, and the fillable devices 100 are positioned, for example, onor over the sealing material. In other instances, the sealing materialis positioned adjacent to the fillable devices 100 after the devices 100have been positioned. The sealing material may reduce or prevent, forexample, liquid from seeping or travelling underneath the device 100.The sealing material may include, for example, dirt, natural clays,bentonite, chemicals, liners, etc.

At step 930, the fillable device 100 can be at least partly filled witha weighting substance. The device 100 may be filled by through openings115. In some instances, all devices 100 positioned in step 925 are atleast partly filled, while in others, only some are filled. In someinstances, step devices and/or tank connection devices are at leastpartly filled, while in others, they are not. In some aspects, noweighting substance is added at all. The weighting substance mayinclude, for example, a solid or liquid substance. The material mayinclude, for example, sand, soil, rocks, dirt or small gravel. If aliquid substance is used, consideration may be given to small leakage,freezing and evaporation. The substance may be denser and/or heavierthan a substance (e.g., fluid) that is to be contained. The substancemay be poured into the openings 115. The devices 100 may then bevibrated to help settle and disperse the substance. The substance mayalso be pumped into the openings. In some conditions, the devices 100can be completely filled with the substances, while in others, they arenot. The amount of substance used to fill the devices 100 may bedetermined, for example, based on one or more of the amount of asubstance (e.g., liquid) that may need to be contained, a weight ordensity difference or ratio between the weighting substance and thesubstance to be contained, the size of the perimeter, evaporation ratesof the weighting substance, predicted leakage rates from the fillabledevices, and the size of the fillable containers.

It should be noted that in some aspects, the fillable device(s) can beanchored or otherwise secured in place, without or in addition to theuse of the weighting substance. Any suitable mechanism can be used, forexample, spikes, wedges, other obstacles that prevent or minimize theability of the devices to move or roll, screws, bolts and the like.

At step 935, the fill openings 115 are covered. The openings 115 may becovered by covers, structures and processes described with respect toFIGS. 2A-C.

Again, it should be noted that any of the steps discussed in connectioncan be removed, added to, supplemented with additional steps, reordered,etc.

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment in which a containment region 1005 issurrounded by a plurality of devices as discussed herein. The regioncontains a plurality of fluid storage units 1010. The region issurrounded by various types of fillable devices 100. Borders between thedevices 100 are not shown in this drawing. The step component 605 andsupporting structure 410 are shown, and thus, people can easily moveinto and out of the region. A fluid transportation unit 710 connects toone of the fluid storage units 1010. The fluid transportation unit 710then enters a tank connection component 805. Thus, the fluid may beaccessed from the outside of the region. In some instances, a pluralityof transportation units 710 and/or of the tank connection components 805are present (e.g., for each of the fluid storage units 1010).

While the invention has been discussed in terms of certain embodiments,it should be appreciated that the invention is not so limited. Theembodiments are explained herein by way of example, and there arenumerous modifications, variations and other embodiments that may beemployed that would still be within the scope of the present invention.

For purposes of this disclosure, certain aspects, advantages, and novelfeatures of the embodiments are described herein. It is to be understoodthat not necessarily all such advantages may be achieved in accordancewith any particular embodiment. Thus, for example, those skilled in theart will recognize that the embodiments may be embodied or carried outin a manner that achieves one advantage or group of advantages as taughtherein without necessarily achieving other advantages as may be taughtor suggested herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method of reducing an effect of an oil or waterspill, the method comprising: identifying a containment region, a tankbattery being within the containment region; evacuating earth materialsalong a perimeter of the containment region; positioning a sealingmaterial along the evacuated perimeter; arranging a plurality offillable devices along the evacuated perimeter, wherein: each fillabledevice of the plurality of fillable devices includes two ends and acavity extending between the two ends and along a length of the fillabledevice, each fillable device of the plurality of fillable devices isarranged such that each of its ends is adjacent to an end of anotherfillable device of the plurality of fillable devices, at least onefillable device of the fillable device includes a set of openingslocated along the length of the fillable device, and the at least onefillable device is positioned such that the set of openings are on a topsurface of the device, and the arrangement of the plurality of fillabledevices and the positioning of the sealing material is such that,subsequent to the arrangement and upon an occurrence of a spill of aliquid, the sealing material is configured to inhibit the liquid fromtraveling from the tank battery underneath the plurality of fillabledevices; and actively filling at least part of the cavities of theplurality of fillable devices with sand, soil, rocks, dirt, asphaltchips, rubber or small gravel into the openings with.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the at least one fillable device includes one or morecoverings attached to the top surface of the top surface of the deviceand configured to cover the set of openings.
 3. The method of claim 1,wherein. the plurality of fillable devices are positioned on the sealingmaterial.
 4. The method of claim 1, wherein the openings are betweenabout 2 and about 8 inches in diameter.
 5. The method of claim 1,wherein each fillable device of the plurality of fillable devicescomprise one or both of high density polyethylene and a metal.
 6. Themethod of claim 1, wherein a first end of at least one of the devices isfacing a direction that is substantially non-parallel to a directionfaced by a second end of the at least one device.
 7. The method of claim1, wherein at least one of the plurality of fillable devices comprisessteps.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein the set of openings arearranged along a line.
 9. The method of claim 1, further comprisingapplying a sealant between adjacent ends of the fillable devices. 10.The method of claim 1, wherein the liquid comprises oil or water.
 11. Amethod of reducing an effect of an oil or water spill, the methodcomprising: identifying a containment region, a tank battery beingwithin the containment region; evacuating earth materials along aperimeter of the containment region; positioning a sealing materialalong the evacuated perimeter; arranging a plurality of fillable devicesalong the evacuated perimeter, wherein: each fillable device of theplurality of fillable devices includes two ends and a cavity extendingbetween the two ends and along a length of the fillable device, eachfillable device of the plurality of fillable devices is arranged suchthat each of its ends is adjacent to an end of another fillable deviceof the plurality of fillable devices, at least one fillable device ofthe fillable device includes a set of openings located along the lengthof the fillable device, the at least one fillable device is positionedsuch that the set of openings are on a top surface of the device, thearrangement of the plurality of fillable devices and the positioning ofthe sealing material is such that, subsequent to the arrangement andupon an occurrence of a spill of a first liquid, the sealing material isconfigured to inhibit the first liquid from traveling from the tankbattery underneath the plurality of fillable devices; and activelyfilling at least part of the cavities of the plurality of fillabledevices by pouring a second liquid into the openings.
 12. The method ofclaim 11, wherein the at least one fillable device includes one or morecoverings attached to the top surface of the top surface of the deviceand configured to cover the set of openings.
 13. The method of claim 11,wherein the plurality of fillable devices are positioned on the sealingmaterial.
 14. The method of claim 11, wherein the openings are betweenabout 2 and about 8 inches in diameter.
 15. The method of claim 11,wherein each fillable device of the plurality of fillable devicescomprise one or both of high density polyethylene and a metal.
 16. Themethod of claim 11, wherein a first end of at least one of the devicesis facing a direction that is substantially non-parallel to a directionfaced by a second end of the at least one device.
 17. The method ofclaim 11, wherein at least one of the plurality of fillable devicescomprises steps.
 18. The method of claim 11, wherein the set of openingsare arranged along a line.
 19. The method of claim 11, wherein the firstliquid has a density greater than a density of second liquid.
 20. Themethod of claim 11, wherein the second liquid comprises oil or water.